Windows 10 Setup: Express vs. Custom - What's the Difference?

Choosing Between Express and Custom Setup in Windows 10

Upon initial installation of Windows 10, Microsoft prioritizes a swift configuration through "Express Settings." However, we advise dedicating time to the customized setup process instead.

This installation methodology has been a feature since Windows 8. Our observations indicate that many users opt for the simpler, faster route. Nevertheless, several crucial privacy settings warrant careful consideration.

When presented with the "Get going fast" screen, select "Customize settings" rather than "Use Express settings."

Personalization and Location Settings

The initial configuration screen addresses Personalization and Location services, the latter of which has been previously discussed in detail.

It's important to note that disabling certain settings may impact the overall Windows 10 experience, or at least deviate from Microsoft’s intended user experience. Let's examine the data submitted if default settings are accepted.

Understanding Data Submission

Accepting the default settings means you are potentially sharing various forms of information. A thorough review of these options is recommended to ensure your comfort level with data collection.

The custom setup allows granular control over these settings, enabling users to tailor their Windows 10 experience to their specific privacy preferences.

While the Express Settings offer convenience, the Custom setup provides a more informed and secure initial configuration.

Customizing Privacy: Personalization and Location

Initially, configuring personalization settings involves consenting to the transmission of your Microsoft contacts and calendar information, alongside other "associated input data," via speech, typing, and handwriting input methods.

This data is retained within the cloud environment, potentially enabling its duplication across multiple Windows 10 installations linked to your Microsoft account.

Furthermore, agreement is given for the submission of typing and inking data to enhance recognition accuracy and predictive suggestions. Consent is also provided for applications to utilize your advertising ID to deliver "experiences across apps."

We recommend selecting "Off" for each of these options to maximize privacy.

Consideration should also be given to location data settings.

If your computer remains stationary or you have no requirement to share your location with Microsoft, disabling this feature is advisable.

The location setting can be re-enabled at any time should it prove necessary for functionality.

Browser Security, Connectivity, and Error Reporting Configuration

This section of the setup process focuses on browser and protection features, alongside connectivity options and error reporting settings. Maintaining SmartScreen enabled is generally recommended, as it provides a defense against potentially harmful content and downloads.

However, it’s important to note that SmartScreen functionality is exclusive to the new Edge browser. The page prediction feature can remain enabled if desired, but its operation is also limited to the new Edge browser.

If you utilize alternative browsers like Chrome or Firefox, this particular setting will have no effect on your browsing experience.

Considering our preference for a different browser, we have disabled this feature.

Regarding the final three options presented, we strongly advise disabling automatic connections to open hotspots and networks shared by your contacts. This enhances your network security.

The decision to send error and diagnostic information to Microsoft is entirely personal. Disabling this option will not impact the performance or functionality of your system in any way.

Adjusting Privacy Settings After Initial Setup

Even if you initially selected express settings during setup, you retain the ability to modify your privacy preferences. Changes can be made within the system settings at any time.

To disable the initial personalization feature, navigate to the Settings app and open the "Privacy" group. Then, select "Speech, inking, & typing".

Select "Stop getting to know me" to deactivate this functionality.